Perth then Bali

On our way back to Papua we stayed two days in Perth, to connect with a church there that partners with us. We stayed with lovely friends Emily and James and their two kids Talia and Toby. Our kids didn't cope so well with yet another transition, and I was struggling with symptoms of an overactive thyroid and Autumn and I didn't really sleep. But! we loved getting to know our hosts a bit better, and meeting the wonderful group who pray for us, catching up with some old friends from college and fish & chips (the best--and most expensive--I've ever had) at the beach.

To get to Papua you have to stop at Jakarta or Bali, and Bali is the obvious choice. We extended our stay to 10 days, because we were so exhausted, and because Guin needed to see an endocrinologist to sort out her thyroid problem. So, in between blood tests, chasing the results and seeing doctors, we had a holiday of sleeping, TV, swimming, eating and reading.



The flight to Papua leaves in the middle of the night. The whole process with small children, no sleep and a ridiculous amount of luggage is a killer, but quickly forgotten.

Soren, Reuben & Autumn








Soren's First Aid utility belt.

Sophie & Katelyn

It was so, so good to reconnect with our dear friends the Rolfes, who live onsite at Kangaroo Ground. Soren and Sophie became friends when they were just one. They were almost inseparable for our last week.





John & Marg

We enjoyed a visit from the grandparents while in Melbourne! 

Grommets & Dentists

We had been wondering for a while if Reuben was having trouble hearing (perhaps he wasn't just ignoring us). So we took him to an audiologist and he did a hearing test and yes, he had a fluid build-up in both ears and needed grommets..

..which meant a trip to hospital and a general anaesthetic. I was concerned he may not be able to swim, as one of the few fun outings we have in Papua is to the pool or beach, so was relieved to hear that he could, with earplugs and a groovy headband.


We also went to see our old friend the dentist.



New Friends New Fun

While we were teaching at Summer School and living onsite, Reuben made a great little friend in Caleb. It was very hard to leave.

Autumn joined the Children's Programme during the day along with the boys so both Phil and I could be on staff. She surprised us both by how much she loved it.

Here she is taking herself off in the morning with her polkadot pink sunglasses safely tucked under the arm.

It was great to see the Mays again, who worked with the Nimboran people many years ago, but still love them dearly and follow us closely.

Wedding

Rob and Elaine got married during our stint in Melbourne. We caught up with a bunch of friends from St Stephens, some of whom we hadn't seen for years. So much fun.